. >> really it's a testament to all of you here to his wonderful mother, bonnie, and his grandmother, florence. >> reporter: his mom and grandmother were both there with the rest of the family from east palo alto, and some old friends. >> you have risen above poverty, above race, in one of the toughest neighborhoods in the bay area. you are a student rising above. now you are a lawyer rising above. [ cheers & applause ] >> reporter: five years ago, his partner -- now the attorney general of california. she came to do the honors. >> the bottom line, and that is a sign of strength and leadership, is you know what you're capable of, in spite of whatever odds people may think other people may think you face. and you know that you can achieve. >> reporter: and then it was time. >> i, benny joe mackey, ii -- to the best of my knowledge and ability. >> welcome to the profession! [ cheers & applause ] >> i am speechless, and excited and happy at the same time. >> and i am so proud of him, because i knew something good is going to come out of east palo alto, and coming out of my family. >> rep